First Thoughts on the Small Range Bag
The Small Range Bag by US PeaceKeeper promises a compact and organized solution for transporting a couple of handguns and essential gear to the range. As someone who’s spent countless hours on the firing line, I’ve seen range bags of all shapes and sizes. I was drawn to this one due to its seemingly perfect blend of portability and thoughtful organization, features that can make or break a range session.
I was tired of lugging around oversized range bags for quick trips to the local indoor range. My old bag felt like overkill when all I needed were two pistols, a few magazines, and some basic cleaning supplies. The promise of a dedicated, smaller bag was appealing, and the US PeaceKeeper Small Range Bag seemed to fit the bill with its focused design.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the bag’s practical size. It felt sturdy, without being overly heavy, and the material seemed durable enough to withstand regular use. The arrangement of pockets also looked well-thought-out. The soft-hook MOLLE wall in the front pocket was a welcome sight, offering flexibility for attaching additional accessories.
Compared to my larger, general-purpose range bag (a 5.11 Tactical), this Small Range Bag is significantly smaller and lighter. Compared to a basic pistol case, like those offered by Plano, the Small Range Bag provides superior organization and extra storage. I chose this Small Range Bag over the other two because it offered what I believed to be the ideal compromise between size, organization, and versatility.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential of the Small Range Bag to simplify my range trips, but eager to see how it held up in real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Small Range Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Small Range Bag was to my local indoor shooting range. I packed two 9mm pistols, six magazines, eye and ear protection, a small cleaning kit, and a box of ammunition. The bag felt comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded.
The internal padded pocket proved to be perfect for securing my handguns, preventing them from bumping into each other. The magazine pockets on the exterior were easily accessible, allowing for quick reloads during drills. The soft-hook MOLLE wall in the front pocket was useful for attaching a small medical kit using Velcro straps.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Small Range Bag has proven to be a reliable companion. There are no signs of excessive wear and tear, and the zippers continue to function smoothly. The material has held up well against abrasions and minor spills.
Cleaning the bag is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to my previous, larger bag, the Small Range Bag is much easier to manage and keep organized. It has definitely exceeded my initial expectations by proving to be both durable and practical.
Breaking Down the Features of Small Range Bag
Specifications
- The US PeaceKeeper Small Range Bag is designed to comfortably carry two handguns. This allows for bringing a primary and backup or comparing different models at the range.
- It features an internal, padded, zippered pocket. The padding ensures the firearms are protected from scratches and impacts during transport.
- A gun rug insert is included. This insert adds another layer of protection and helps to keep the handguns securely in place.
- Multiple exterior pockets offer ample storage space. These pockets provide organization for magazines, ammunition, cleaning supplies, and other essential range gear.
- It comes equipped with six (6) magazine pockets. These pockets are strategically placed for quick and easy access to spare magazines.
- The front pocket boasts an interior soft-hook MOLLE wall. This innovative feature allows for attaching MOLLE and Velcro-compatible accessories, enabling a high degree of customization.
Performance & Functionality
The Small Range Bag performs its core function exceptionally well: transporting and organizing essential range gear. The padded internal pocket securely holds two handguns, while the numerous exterior pockets provide ample space for magazines, ammunition, and accessories. The magazine pockets are particularly well-designed, offering easy access for quick reloads.
The soft-hook MOLLE wall is a standout feature, allowing users to customize the bag to their specific needs. The bag’s compact size makes it easy to carry, even when fully loaded, and the overall construction feels durable and reliable. While there is nothing inherently wrong with the design, a slightly larger main compartment could accommodate larger frame pistols more comfortably. It meets expectations and provides an organized space for range necessities.
Design & Ergonomics
The Small Range Bag features a practical and well-thought-out design. The placement of the pockets is logical, and the zippers are smooth and easy to operate. The bag’s compact size strikes a good balance between portability and storage capacity.
The materials used in the construction of the bag feel durable and of decent quality. The bag is user-friendly with a minimal learning curve due to its straightforward design.
Durability & Maintenance
The Small Range Bag appears to be built to last. The material is resistant to abrasion, and the stitching is strong and secure. The zippers are heavy-duty and should withstand repeated use.
Maintaining the bag is simple. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Small Range Bag does not come with a plethora of accessories, but its standout feature is the soft-hook MOLLE wall in the front pocket. This allows for a high degree of customization using a wide range of MOLLE and Velcro-compatible accessories. The bag is compatible with various magazine pouches, medical kits, and other tactical accessories from different brands, enhancing its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Small Range Bag
Pros
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and transport, perfect for quick range trips.
- Excellent Organization: Dedicated pockets for handguns, magazines, and accessories.
- Soft-Hook MOLLE Wall: Highly customizable, allowing users to attach additional gear.
- Durable Construction: Made from quality materials that withstand regular use.
- Affordable Price: Offers great value for its features and performance.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: May not be sufficient for shooters who need to carry a large amount of gear.
- Tight Fit for Larger Pistols: Main compartment can feel cramped with full-size or larger-frame handguns.
Who Should Buy Small Range Bag?
The Small Range Bag is perfect for:
- Casual Shooters: Those who make frequent trips to the range with a couple of handguns.
- Concealed Carry Practitioners: A discrete option to practice with your EDC.
- Shooting Instructors: As a compact way to bring the essentials for one-on-one lessons.
- Law Enforcement Officers: An excellent secondary bag for qualifications and range drills.
Who should skip this product? This Small Range Bag is not ideal for those who require significant storage space for multiple firearms, optics, or a large amount of ammunition.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Additional magazine pouches and a small medical kit can further enhance the bag’s functionality.
Conclusion on Small Range Bag
The Small Range Bag by US PeaceKeeper delivers on its promise of providing a compact and organized solution for transporting handguns and essential range gear. The combination of dedicated pockets, durable construction, and customizable soft-hook MOLLE wall makes it a standout product in its category. At $65.99, the price is justified, considering the bag’s features and overall quality.
I would personally recommend the Small Range Bag to anyone looking for a convenient and efficient way to carry their handguns and gear to the range. It simplifies the entire process and allows you to focus on what matters most: your shooting. Get yours today and experience a more organized and enjoyable range experience.